Elizabeth Torres

Santa Ana College - School of Continuing Education

Nominated in 2025

I am honored to nominate Elizabeth Torres, a truly inspiring individual whose journey reflects determination, resilience, and the life-changing power of education. Elizabeth Torres was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and moved to the United States in 2007. Despite holding a degree in Industrial Engineering from her home country, she faced significant challenges upon arriving in the U.S., particularly the language barrier. Determined to adapt and succeed, she enrolled in adult ESL classes to learn English, Her initial goal was simple—she wanted to learn English so she could help her daughters with their homework.

While working minimum-wage jobs in fast food, she continued taking advanced English classes for college credit at Santa Ana College. After 16 years of hard work and personal sacrifice, she decided to go back to school and pursue her GED. She enrolled in Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education, where she earned her GED certificate in just four months. During this time, she also discovered she could validate her prior university studies—something she hadn’t known was possible. She successfully obtained a BA in Science of Industrial Engineering.

Her academic achievements led to new professional opportunities. She was invited to work as an Instructional Assistant in the HISET/GED department, where she was able to support and inspire other adult learners. Shortly after, she was promoted to the Outreach department as a Student Services Specialist. In this role, she actively engages with diverse students, encouraging them to pursue their educational and professional aspirations.

Elizabeth’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education. With the unwavering support of her family, she has not only improved her own life but has also become a guiding force for others in her community. Her contributions extend beyond her own success—she serves as an advocate for adult education, particularly within the Latino community.

Currently, she is preparing to attend California State University, Fullerton, where she will pursue a Master’s degree in World Languages and Humanities. Her ultimate dream is to become a university professor specializing in Spanish, further extending her impact by educating and empowering future generations.

Elizabeth firmly believes that education opens doors, and she has proven that with determination and perseverance, those doors lead to success. As she wisely notes, “Ignorance is one of the worst enemies of humankind.”